Safe jumper methodology utilizing switch embedded connection clamps

Abstract

A clamp includes a first and second handle parts that are pivotable relative to each other and biased closed. A first electrical contactor is associated with the first handle part, and a second electrical contactor is associated with the second handle part. The first electrical contactor and the second electrical contactor are positioned such that in the closed position of the clamp, a circuit connection between the first electrical contactor and the second electrical contactor is open, and in the open position, the circuit connection is closed.

Description

CROSS-REFERENCES TO RELATED APPLICATIONS[0001]This application claims the benefit of U.S. Provisional Patent Application No. 62 / 099,617, filed Jan. 5, 2015, the entire content of which is herein incorporated by reference.STATEMENT REGARDING FEDERALLY SPONSORED RESEARCH OR DEVELOPMENT[0002](NOT APPLICABLE)BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION[0003]I. Field[0004]This invention pertains generally to electronic circuitry accessories, more specifically to manual clamp-on “jumper wires” and “jumper cables”. More specifically, this invention pertains to a new class of jumper wires and cables that can eliminate inadvertent electronic power transfer and / or arcing. This new class of jumper devices when used in conjunction with low amperage electronic circuit applications, may be known as “Jumper Pups” and when used in higher amperage applications, such as with car batteries, may be known as “Jumper Dogs”. The invention also relates to a clamp with an integrated switch that allows current to flow (or in...

AI Technical Summary

Benefits of technology

[0014]A purpose of this present invention is to provide a new class of electrical jumpers, which substantially increase the safety of connected electronic components, and in the case of high current applications, the safety of the user as well. The invention offers the level of protection that would be afforded by a circuit disconnection switch integrated into the jumper wire or cable, but with the convenience of being operated by the simple squeezing of the clamp handles. The invention also relates to a clamp generally with an integrated switch that allows current to flow (or in certain applications, not flow) based on a relative position of the clamp handles. The described embodiments are applicable to any instance that necessitates temporary attachment of the electrical cables by means of a clamp.

[0015]The present invention, may offer particular benefit when used with high-current automotive procedures such as “battery jumping”. In such an automotive embodiment, called Jumper Dogs, the system takes the form of, and operates in the same manner as, traditional automotive jumper cables. The primary difference is Jumper Dogs' novel terminal clamps, which also function as a switch. Other automotive applications of the described embodiments that typically include clamps are battery chargers, portable auxiliary batteries, and the like. Alternative applications will also be apparent, including, without limitation, a clamp for linemen with power companies where the clamp prevents AC current flow until the clamp is in a use position, e.g., clamp is open to attach to a cable or terminal.

Problems solved by technology

Almost everyone who has “jump-charged” a car battery has had the unfortunate experience of inadvertently touching the positive and negative clamps together, or even worse, dropping one of the clamps into the engine compartment.

Improper connections can result in “shorting”, causing small wires to burn up quickly.

Shorting large wires capable of carrying lots of current can even be worse, producing flying shards of molten metal.

Shorting the terminals of the battery can quickly overheat it, causing a fire, or battery explosion.

The sparking, arcing, and ensuing panic is bad enough, but with today's vehicles, improper jumper cable use can also result in serious damage to a car's electronics.

If a “live” jumper is inadvertently dropped onto a circuit board, substantial damage may occur within the system.

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